A man has died after a fatal crash on the A12 that shut the road near Colchester for around six hours.

Two vehicles were involved in the collision that happened at around 9am this morning (Thursday, September 27).

A lorry and a black Yamaha motorbike were involved in the serious crash on the southbound carriageway.

Emergency services, including police and paramedics, attended the scene and the road was immediately closed while the scene was attended to.

An air ambulance was also sent to the scene, causing the northbound carriageway to be temporarily held to allow the helicopter to land.

A 24-year-old man, who was the rider of the motorcycle, was pronounced dead at the scene.

His next of kin have been informed and are being supported by specialist officers.

Where did it happen?

The A12 was at a standstill near Colchester United Football Club (Image: Paula Knight)

The crash took place at around 9am this morning on the southbound carriageway of the A12 between junction 28 for Colchester United Football Ground and junction 27 for the Avenue of remembrance roundabout.

The road was shut for around six hours while emergency services attended the scene, before being fully re-opened at around 3pm this afternoon.

Witness described the scene

Paula Knight, who was driving on the A12 on Thursday morning, said: "Everything was just at a standstill.

"Police were turning people round and going back up the entry slip road by the stadium, but police have blocked that now too.

"A private ambulance passed so I assume that it is bad news.

"I have no idea how far back it goes, but the accident is at junction 30 I believe.

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The East of England Ambulance Service also attended the incident including dispatching an air ambulance, which briefly stopped traffic on the northbound carriageway of the A12 while it landed.

Essex Police are now appealing for anyone with information or dash cam footage to call 101 and ask for the Serious Collision Investigation Unit or email collisionappeal@essex.pnn.police.uk quoting incident number 226 of 27/09.